Tiger Nuts

Tiger nuts, also known as aya (Hausa), ofio (Yoruba), or aki hausa, are a beloved traditional snack found in markets, family homes, and celebrations across West Africa. Though they’re often referred to as “nuts,” tiger nuts are actually small, nutrient-rich tubers from the Cyperus esculentus plant. With their naturally sweet, nutty flavour and slightly chewy texture, this snack earned a place in both everyday snacking and festive recipes.

In Nigeria, these nuts are popularly soaked and enjoyed raw or blended with dates and ginger to create the refreshing, traditional drink kunu aya. Beyond beverages, they’re also ground into flour for gluten-free baking, used in cereals, or added to smoothies for extra texture and plant-based nutrition. Their natural sweetness also makes them a great sugar substitute in some recipes.

At NaijaMart, we source only premium, whole, dried tiger nuts, ensuring quality, freshness, and cultural authenticity in every pack. You can eat them straight from the bag, soak them overnight for a softer bite, or incorporate them into your wellness and culinary rituals. However you choose to enjoy them, tiger nuts offer a deeply satisfying crunch that evokes both nourishment and nostalgia.

Rich in fibre, naturally gluten-free, and entirely plant-based, tiger nuts are perfect for modern health-conscious eaters, fitness enthusiasts, vegans, and anyone longing for a taste of home. They’re a wholesome, flavourful alternative to processed snacks and fit seamlessly into both traditional African meals and global fusion recipes.

We deliver authentic Nigerian products with fast, local delivery in South Africa. Shop confidently with NaijaMart, your trusted bridge to West African heritage, flavour, and quality. You can read more about tiger nuts in South Africa on our blog.

Other names

Depending on the country, they are known as:

• Tiger nuts (most common in English)
• Chufa (Spain)
• Aya (Hausa, Nigeria)
• Ofio (Yoruba, Nigeria)
• Imumu (Igbo, Nigeria)